Ismaili Heritage Tour Pakistan

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Day 01 – Arrival in Lahore | Welcome to Pakistan

Upon arrival at Lahore International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by the Discovery Pakistan Travel & Tours team and transferred to your hotel.

After some rest and an introductory briefing, visit the Lahore Jamatkhana for Duaa,

followed by an opportunity to meet and interact with local Jamati members.

Overnight: Lahore

Day 02 – Lahore Heritage & AKTC Experience

After breakfast, begin your exploration of the historic heart of Lahore.

Visit a traditional local flower market to experience the vibrant daily life and colorful traditions of the city. Continue with a guided tour of the Walled City of Lahore, including important heritage conservation projects and historic monuments such as:

Shahi Hammam
Wazir Khan Mosque
Historic streets and bazaars of the Walled City

Enjoy a storytelling session and traditional tea with a local family, offering a unique opportunity to experience Lahore’s hospitality and cultural traditions.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner followed by a fascinating night rickshaw tour through Old Lahore.

Overnight: Lahore

Day 03 – Culture, Arts & Community

Today is dedicated to Lahore’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Visit the Lahore Museum to explore Pakistan’s history, archaeology, art, and cultural heritage. Continue to the Alhamra Arts Council, one of Pakistan’s leading cultural and artistic institutions.

Later, visit the magnificent Shalimar Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Mughal Garden architecture.

In the evening, experience the famous Wagah Border Ceremony, followed by an evening of traditional Qawali or Sufi cultural performance, depending on availability.

Overnight: Lahore

Day 04 – Rural Punjab, Traditional Crafts & Jamati Interaction

After breakfast, travel outside the city for an authentic rural Punjab experience.

Visit a local village and discover traditional lifestyles, agriculture, crafts, and community traditions. Participate in cultural workshops, which may include:

Traditional textile and Ajrak-related crafts
Jewelry-making
Local handicrafts
Traditional village activities

The day also provides an opportunity for interaction with Jamati leadership and community representatives.

The evening is free for relaxation, personal exploration, or an optional cultural program.

Overnight: Lahore

Day 05 – Journey to Gilgit via Skardu | Entering the Karakoram

Today, begin your journey to the spectacular mountain regions of northern Pakistan.

Enjoy a scenic flight over the magnificent Karakoram mountain range, weather and flight conditions permitting. Upon arrival in Skardu, visit the beautiful Shangrila Resort and enjoy the spectacular surroundings.

Continue the journey by road towards Gilgit, passing through dramatic mountain landscapes and valleys.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Later, visit Jutial Jamatkhana for Duaa and interaction with local Jamati members.

In the evening, enjoy a peaceful bonfire gathering and mountain atmosphere.

Overnight: Gilgit

Day 06 – Gilgit | Community, Education & AKDN Projects

Today focuses on the social, educational, and community development initiatives of the region.

Visit selected AKDN-related institutions and educational initiatives, which may include:

Professional Development Centre North
Aga Khan schools and colleges
Other relevant community development projects

Later, visit the Gilgit-Baltistan Museum to learn about the region’s history, cultures, traditions, and diverse communities.

Enjoy a walk through the local bazaar and interact with Jamati members.

In the evening, visit Gilgit Jamatkhana for Duaa and community interaction.

Overnight: Gilgit

Day 07 – Gilgit to Hunza | Journey Along the Karakoram Highway

After breakfast, depart for Hunza along the legendary Karakoram Highway.

The scenic journey takes you through spectacular valleys and mountain landscapes. Stop at the famous Rakaposhi View Point to admire one of the most beautiful mountain panoramas in Pakistan.

Continue to Hunza and check in at your hotel.

The evening is free for relaxation, personal exploration, or informal interaction with local community members.

Overnight: Hunza

Day 08 – Hunza Heritage, Education & Local Culture

Today, discover the historical and cultural heritage of Hunza.

Visit the magnificent:

Baltit Fort
Altit Fort
Historic Altit village

Enjoy a walking tour through the old village, where you can observe traditional architecture, local homes, narrow streets, and the historic lifestyle of the people of Hunza.

Visit selected Aga Khan schools and learn about the importance of education and community development in the region.

Later, participate in a local music workshop at a community-based learning and music centre.

In the evening, travel to Eagle’s Nest to enjoy one of Hunza’s most spectacular sunset views.

Overnight: Hunza

Day 09 – Upper Hunza & Ismaili Roots

Today, travel to the beautiful Upper Hunza region.

Visit Gulmit, a historic Ismaili settlement with a rich cultural and community heritage. Meet local community members and elders and learn about the history, traditions, and social development of the area.

Visit local women’s carpet and handicraft centres, supporting community-based livelihoods and women’s empowerment.

Enjoy tea and cultural interaction with a local or traditional family.

Visit Bulbulik Music School and learn about the preservation of traditional music and cultural heritage.

Later, enjoy a relaxing boating experience at the spectacular Attabad Lake.

The day may also include an overview of community development and disaster resilience initiatives associated with the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat.

Overnight: Hunza

Day 10 – Workshops & Community Engagement in Hunza

Today is dedicated to deeper community engagement and cultural exchange.

Participate in selected workshops and community-based activities related to development, education, culture, and social initiatives.

Possible experiences may include:

AKDN-related workshops
Women’s empowerment projects
Community development initiatives
Interaction with local Jamati members
Cultural exchange sessions

This day provides an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the social, cultural, and economic development of mountain communities.

Overnight: Hunza

Day 11 – Hunza to Skardu | Scenic Mountain Journey

After breakfast, begin the scenic journey from Hunza to Skardu.

Travel through the spectacular landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, with opportunities to stop along the way for photography, refreshments, and relaxation.

Enjoy lunch and a break at Shangrila Resort, surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery.

Continue the journey towards Skardu.

Upon arrival, visit Skardu Jamatkhana for Duaa and interaction with local Jamati members.

The evening is reserved for rest, reflection, and relaxation after the long scenic journey.

Overnight: Skardu

Day 12 – Skardu to Islamabad | Rawalpindi Heritage & Community

After breakfast, transfer to Skardu Airport for your flight to Islamabad, subject to weather and flight operations.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some time to rest.

Later, explore the cultural and historic highlights of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, including:

Pakistan Monument
Faisal Mosque
Selected landmarks of the capital region

Visit Pindi Jamatkhana for Duaa and interaction with local Jamati members.

Overnight: Islamabad/Rawalpindi

Day 13 – Islamabad | Culture, Heritage & Community

Today, explore the cultural and national heritage of Islamabad.

Visit important landmarks, including:

Pakistan Monument
Faisal Mosque
Parliament House area, Visit PTDC Tourism Department
Visit GIGA Famous Mal for Shopping

Visit a local Jamatkhana, such as Apara or G-9/1, for Duaa and interaction with local Jamati members.

Later, visit the Lok Virsa Museum, where you can discover Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage, traditional crafts, music, costumes, and regional traditions.

In the afternoon, visit the historic Saidpur Village or enjoy free time for shopping and personal exploration.

In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner and reflection session, providing an opportunity to share experiences and memories from the journey.

Overnight: Islamabad

Day 14 – Islamabad | Rest, Shopping & Departure

Enjoy a relaxed final day in Islamabad.

The day is reserved for:

Rest and relaxation
Personal shopping
Last-minute souvenir purchases
Personal exploration

In the evening, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight.

End of the Journey

Organized by

Discovery Pakistan Travel & Tours

A journey of heritage, faith, culture, community, education, and the spectacular landscapes of Pakistan.

Included/Excluded

Airport transfers
Cross-border arrival assistance (Pakistan side)
Professional English-speaking guide in Pakistan
Private air-conditioned transportation
Hotel accommodation (8 nights)
Daily breakfast
Selected dinners

Domestic flight (Gilgit–Islamabad, weather permitting)
Entry tickets to monuments and museums
Boat ride on Attabad Lake
Gulmit cable car experience
Toll taxes and parking fees
Government taxes
Tour Excludes
Chinese visa
Pakistani visa
International airfare
Personal travel insurance
Lunches
Personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Camera fees where applicable
Any services not specifically mentioned

Tour Plan

Day 01 Arrival in Kashgar, China

Gateway to the Ancient Silk Road

Upon arrival at Kashgar International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely walk through Kashgar's lively streets and experience the unique blend of Uyghur culture, traditional architecture, and bustling local life.

Highlights

Airport reception
Hotel check-in
Welcome briefing
Free evening to explore
Overnight: Kashgar

Day 02 Discover Historic Kashgar

Today is dedicated to exploring one of Central Asia's most fascinating cities.

Visit the famous Sunday Market, one of Asia's oldest trading centers where merchants from across the region continue centuries-old traditions.

Continue to visit:

Eidgah Mosque
Abakh Hoja Tomb
Kashgar Old City
Traditional handicraft workshops
Local food streets
Uyghur cultural quarters
Enjoy opportunities for photography and cultural interaction throughout the day.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Kashgar

Day 03 Kashgar – Karakul Lake – Tashkurgan

Drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway, regarded as one of the world's greatest mountain roads.

Stop at the stunning Karakul Lake, surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of Muztagh Ata and Kongur Mountain, creating one of Central Asia's most spectacular landscapes.

Continue through dramatic mountain scenery before arriving in the historic town of Tashkurgan, once an important Silk Road trading center.

Highlights

Karakoram Highway
Karakul Lake
Muztagh Ata
Mountain photography
Tashkurgan Fortress (time permitting)
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Tashkurgan

Day 04 ashkurgan – Khunjerab Pass – Passu

After completing border and immigration formalities, cross into Pakistan via the spectacular Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m), the highest paved international border crossing in the world.

Enter the breathtaking landscapes of Upper Hunza as you descend through Sost into Passu.

The scenery transforms into towering peaks, glaciers, rivers, and the iconic Passu Cathedral Peaks.

Highlights

China–Pakistan border crossing
Khunjerab National Park
Wildlife viewing opportunities
Karakoram scenery
Arrival in Passu
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Passu

Day 05 Passu, Hussaini & Borith Lake

Today explore one of the most beautiful regions of Upper Hunza.

Visit:

Hussaini Village
Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Borith Lake
Passu Glacier Viewpoint
Passu Village
Local cafés
Traditional Wakhi settlements
Optional short walks and photography throughout the day.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Passu

Day 06 Full-Day Excursion to Chapursan Valley

Journey into the remote and beautiful Chapursan Valley, one of Pakistan's hidden gems.

Explore traditional mountain villages surrounded by dramatic peaks and vast alpine meadows.

Depending on the season, enjoy:

Horse riding
Yak riding
Village walks
Traditional Wakhi hospitality
Local handicrafts
Optional freestyle polo demonstration (subject to local scheduling)
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Passu

Day 07 Discover Gulmit Heritage

Spend the day exploring the cultural heart of Upper Hunza.

Visit:

Gulmit Old Village
700-year-old traditional Wakhi house
Local Cultural Museum
Community-based school
Orchard walks
Traditional music and local cuisine
Enjoy an authentic cultural dinner hosted by a local family.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Passu

Day 08 Passu – Attabad Lake – Hopper Valley – Karimabad

Drive toward Hunza while stopping at several remarkable locations.

Visit the spectacular Attabad Lake, formed after the 2010 landslide, where you may enjoy an optional boat ride.

Continue to Hopper Valley, famous for its panoramic glacier views and beautiful mountain villages.

Arrive in Karimabad, the cultural center of Hunza Valley.

Highlights

Attabad Lake
Boating (optional)
Hopper Glacier
Scenic mountain drive
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Karimabad

Day 09 Explore Hunza Valley

Spend the day discovering the rich history and culture of Hunza.

Visit:

Baltit Fort
Altit Fort
Royal Gardens
Traditional irrigation channel walk
Karimabad Bazaar
Local handicraft shops
Café stops with mountain views
Enjoy free time for shopping and photography.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Karimabad

Day 10 Karimabad – Gilgit

Drive along the Karakoram Highway toward Fairy Meadows ,

Stop at the famous Rakaposhi View Point, offering magnificent views of one of the world's most beautiful mountains.

Continue to Fairy Meadows

Drive to Raikot Bridge, where local mountain jeeps begin an exciting off-road adventure to Tato Village.

From Tato, enjoy a scenic hike through alpine forests to the world-famous Fairy Meadows, offering breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat (8,126 m).

Relax in charming wooden cottages surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery.

Meals: Breakfast

Overnight: Fairy Meadows Wooden Cabins

Day 11 Fullday Fairy Meadows Nanga Parbat Trek

Trek to Nanga parbat base camp full day beautiful trek lunch in Bayal Camp back to Fairy Meadows ,

Day 12 Fairy Meadows – Naran

Enjoy sunrise views over Nanga Parbat before descending to Raikot Bridge.
Continue south through beautiful valleys toward the alpine resort town of Naran.
Numerous scenic photography stops are included along the route.
Meals: Breakfast
Overnight: Naran

Day 13 Naran – Taxila – Islamabad

Drive toward Islamabad.

En route visit the ancient archaeological city of Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that flourished during the Gandhara Civilization.

Visit:

Taxila Museum
Ancient monasteries
Buddhist ruins
Upon arrival in Islamabad, enjoy a city tour including:
Faisal Mosque
Pakistan Monument
Daman-e-Koh Viewpoint
Celebrate the successful completion of your Silk Road adventure with a farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Overnight: Islamabad

Day 14 Departure from Islamabad

Following breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight.

Your unforgettable Silk Road journey concludes with lifelong memories of extraordinary landscapes, ancient civilizations, and the warm hospitality of Pakistan and China.